'I Fell Into Facilities Management and Found Where I Belong': The Path to Success for Women in Facilities Management

International Women’s Day 2026 highlights the theme “Give to Gain,” recognising that progress happens when individuals and organisations actively support the advancement of women.

By sharing knowledge, creating opportunities and championing diverse leadership, industries can build stronger and more inclusive workplaces.

In facilities management (FM), a sector that has historically been male-dominated, this message is increasingly relevant as more women step into leadership roles and contribute their skills, experience and perspectives to shaping the future of the industry.

In this article, Mary-Kate Murphy, a leader in facilities management and both a graduate of and a tutor at Portobello Institute shares her reflections on her career and the advice she'd give for others to gain.

Mary-Kate's Career Path

Can you tell us about your career path into FM What first attracted you to the industry?

Like a lot of people, I fell into workplace management over ten years ago. I instantly felt that I had found a business function where I felt I belonged and aligned with my working style.

I have done a variety of roles as my career progressed learning on the job as I progressed.

I have found that the industry has evolved a lot over the past 10 years and as such has offered me great opportunities that also allow me to balance my role as a mother of 3.

Facilities management has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated sector. What has your experience been like as a woman working in FM?

I have been very lucky in my career to date to be surrounded by strong allies that have always made me feel equal, seen and heard at every stage of my career.

When you are the only woman in the room, or female member of a management team it can feel intimidating at first, but I always think of those who I want to join me there and make sure there is a path for them to follow.

The industry is changing we need to make sure we have signposts to help others see that it is a great career option, with great opportunities to grow.

What do you enjoy most about working in facilities management?

The fast paced nature and the variety that this industry offers. No two days are the same and the industry is evolving very quickly.

How has your career progressed since entering the industry? Have you found that FM offers strong opportunities for development and progression into senior roles?

Yes, my career has been varied and offered me a lot along the way. It has grown and evolved in ways I could not have imagined.

I truly think the industry is now becoming a career of choice, there are education opportunities to help people gain the skills, couples with companies' goals and culture evolving to realise that having a strong FM/Workplace can lead to strategic advantage.

Education & Professional Development

What motivated you to study facilities management at Portobello Institute, and why did you choose Portobello for your qualification?

At the time I was looking for validation of my skills. I think I felt I needed a qualification to help illustrate that I did know what I was doing and to give me the confidence to keep aiming for the next opportunity in my career.

How did your experience at Portobello support your confidence and career progression within facilities management?

It really validated the work I was doing and allowed me to become more structured in how I approached things.

In your view, is facilities management a strong career choice for women today? Why?

Yes! It is such a varied industry there is something here that will appeal to most personalities and work styles.

It is evolving and changing in line with technology and regulation so there is always something new to spark interest.

It is also an industry that I personally feel helps balance work with a personal life, be those hobbies, sports, family etc.

Women in Facilities Management

Have you seen positive changes in gender representation or opportunities for women in FM during your career?

Yes, I am seeing more women in leadership roles.

What challenges, if any, have you faced as a woman in the industry and how did you overcome them?

I have been very lucky to have been surrounded by great allies working at companies where diversity was built into their cultures.

What strengths do you think women bring to facilities management roles?

We bring such a strong skillset to the industry; the ability to multitask, have the ability to pivot and adapt quickly to name a few.

Advice & Inspiration

What advice would you give to women who are considering a career in facilities management?

Go for it! If you are unsure reach out to people like me and ask them for advice.

What would you say to someone who hasn’t yet considered facilities management as a career option?

There is a wealth of opportunity if you are curious about this industry please reach to educators like the team at Portobello, they can help sign post the way.

International Women’s Day 2026

This year’s International Women’s Day theme focuses on ‘Give to Gain’. What does this theme and/or International Women’s Day mean to you personally and professionally?

I think for me it highlights the impact that having more diversity in my industry the richer it will be. FM and workplace as industry can only gain from the amazing skills and talent diverse employees bring to it.

Looking Ahead in Facilities Management

What excites you most about the future of facilities management?

Technology, I think, is a great disrupter for all industries. It creates opportunities that will support the world into the future.

What are your own professional goals for the coming years?

To keep learning. Everyday is a school day and in our industry we need to be open to constant reinvention and change.

Final Thoughts

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience as a woman in facilities management?

If you would like to learn more or are curious about the industry, feel free to reach out to me or the team at Portobello. We won’t have all the answers, but we might help guide you the right first step on the path.

At Portobello Institute, our facilities management faculty works closely with industry professionals to support the development of future leaders in the sector. Visit our faculty here.